Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs about commercial solar and residential solar installation.
General
Prices vary depending on system size and quality, but typically range from $3,000 to $10,000 for homes and $10,000 to $50,000+ for businesses.
Yes, the Victorian Government offers rebates through the Solar Homes program (up to $1,462) and Small Business Solar Battery program (up to $4,811).
Absolutely! You can potentially save 50-80% on your electricity costs, though payback time depends on system size and electricity usage.
High-quality panels typically last 25-30 years and come with warranties of 10-12 years.
Minimal maintenance is required – occasional cleaning to remove debris is usually enough.
Businesses
In Melbourne, commercial solar panels can typically be expected to last between 25 to 30 years. However, several factors can influence their lifespan:
- Panel quality: Higher-quality panels, often made with monocrystalline or multi-crystalline silicon, tend to last longer than those made with lower-quality materials.
- Sunlight exposure: Panels that receive more direct sunlight exposure may experience slightly faster degradation compared to those in shaded areas.
- Proper installation and maintenance: Following recommended installation practices and performing regular cleaning can help extend the lifespan of your panels.
It’s important to note that even after 25-30 years, your panels will likely still generate electricity, but their efficiency might gradually decline. Most manufacturers offer warranties covering power output for a specific period, usually around 25 years. This means the panels are guaranteed to produce at least a certain percentage (usually around 80%) of their original output during the warranty period.
An energy audit will help determine your energy needs and recommend the optimal system size. Contact us on 1300 LUV SUN (1300 588 786) to organise your energy audit.
Yes, batteries allow you to store excess solar energy for use during peak hours or power outages.
Demonstrating your commitment to sustainability can enhance your brand image and attract environmentally conscious clients.
The ROI for solar panels depends on several factors like system size, energy usage, and available rebates. However, businesses generally see a payback period of 3-7 years on their investment, with significant savings over the system’s lifespan.
Homes
In Melbourne, residential solar panels can typically be expected to last between 25 to 30 years. However, several factors can influence their lifespan:
- Panel quality: Higher-quality panels, often made with monocrystalline or multi-crystalline silicon, tend to last longer than those made with lower-quality materials.
- Sunlight exposure: Panels that receive more direct sunlight exposure may experience slightly faster degradation compared to those in shaded areas.
- Proper installation and maintenance: Following recommended installation practices and performing regular cleaning can help extend the lifespan of your panels.
It’s important to note that even after 25-30 years, your panels will likely still generate electricity, but their efficiency might gradually decline. Most manufacturers offer warranties covering power output for a specific period, usually around 25 years. This means the panels are guaranteed to produce at least a certain percentage (usually around 80%) of their original output during the warranty period.
If you’re considering solar panels for your Melbourne home, it’s crucial to choose high-quality products, proper installation and maintenance. This will help ensure you get the most out of your solar investment for years to come.
Different mounting options exist for various roof types and angles. Consult SolarVista on 1300 LUV SUN (1300 588 786) for a feasibility assessment.
Modern panels are sleek and unobtrusive, often blending well with most roof styles.
Some installers offer solar power purchase agreements (PPAs) where you pay for the energy produced, not the panels themselves.
Absolutely! Several financing options are available in Melbourne to make solar panels more accessible.
These include:
- Government solar loans: The Victorian Government offers low-interest loans through its Solar Homes program, making repayments manageable.
- Green loans: Many banks and lenders offer green loans specifically for energy-efficient upgrades like solar panels, often with favorable interest rates.
- Solar power purchase agreements (PPAs): With PPAs, you lease the solar panels from an installer and pay for the energy they produce, avoiding the upfront cost.
Choose Solar, Choose Sustainability
Switching to solar is not just about reducing your energy bills but also about contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable future.